First modular buildings arrive for ECHO’s new family resource center
New 7,200-square-foot facility will add 30 beds for families experiencing homelessness
– El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) marked a milestone in its Building Hope & Home Campaign on March 18 with the arrival and installation of the first modular components for the Balay Ko Family Resource Center in Atascadero.
Seventeen modular units from Bevyhouse were delivered and set into place on March 18 and 19, forming the structure of the new 7,200-square-foot facility designed by Arris Architect, located adjacent to the organization’s existing Atascadero campus.
The Balay Ko Family Resource Center will serve families with children experiencing homelessness. Once complete, the facility will expand the total number of shelter beds by 30 and include private rooms, living spaces, a workforce development classroom, a children’s learning and activity room, and private counseling offices.
“SCI is honored to be part of the ECHO and Balay Ko Foundation team serving families with children in our community,” said Rudy Bachmann, president of Specialty Construction. “We have seen firsthand the life-changing impact ECHO has on families, and we know this new resource center will significantly expand that impact.”
More than 300 individuals and families remain on the organization’s waitlist for shelter. In addition to housing, the center will offer case management, a bathtub for families with children, job training, and programs for children.
“We are incredibly excited and deeply grateful to see this dedicated family wing taking shape,” said Wendy Lewis, CEO of ECHO.
“This project reflects our commitment to meeting the growing need for family shelter in our community while creating lasting pathways to stability. Thanks to the Balay Ko Foundation and the tremendous support of our community, we are taking bold, tangible steps to change lives. This is more than construction—it’s a promise that families facing crisis will find safety, stability, and a path forward.”
El Camino Homeless Organization has raised more than 63% of its $6 million campaign goal, with approximately $2.2 million still needed. For more information or to donate, visit www.echoshelter.org.
El Camino Homeless Organization has operated in San Luis Obispo County since 2001, providing food, shelter, and supportive services. The organization operates two facilities in Atascadero and Paso Robles with a total bed capacity of 130, a daily community dinner program, and a shower program for individuals and families throughout the county.
